We know that our children will learn and grow at different rates, but even with those different rates, there are some children who are outside of what is typically defined as ‘normal.’ Some children need extra support with reading, others with bike riding. But some might have other issues like difficulties speaking, listening, or following instructions.
What makes it more tricky is that some children have different personalities too – and while one child might be calm and relaxed all the time, another might be busy – constantly exploring and doing.
So how can you tell if your child might need a little extra help and when it might be time for you to seek outside help like ADHA, autism, or an ODD diagnosis?
Concentration
As our children get a little bit older, the length of time they can concentrate will also get longer. Often the teachers in your child’s school might notice this first since they likely spend the longest trying to help your child settle into doing their work.
Your child might also tell you that their mind feels full of everything they need to do, and they struggle to concentrate on one thing.
You might notice that they are often overactive, inattentive, or impulsive. You may also see that they are forgetful or make inappropriate comments.
Sometimes a lack of concentration can signify that there is more going on.
Behavior
Some children love to push the boundaries and ‘act out’ while others have no real control over it. If you or your child’s teacher notices that your child can’t sit still for very long, is unusually disruptive compared to their peers, or seems very destructive – these can be signs that your child needs to have a professional session.
Writing
There is a natural flow and a format to almost everything that we write. Still, if you see that your child has trouble getting d,b,p, and other similar letters wrong consistently, it might be worth some further investigation.
Typical signs of dyslexia are:
- Things like reading.
- Taking a very long time (longer than average).
- Struggling with short-term memory.
- While highly intelligent verbally, their written work might not reflect that.
Learning language, reading and writing, and math can all feel very difficult.
Reaction to change
As adults, we know that change sometimes happens and can prepare for it. Children very often will be able to cope with changes as they happen.
However, if you notice that your child is particularly sensitive to change, it might be that they are resistant or can’t cope with it at all; this can cause further conversations.
Other behavior like lack of eye contact, taking things very literally, or being repetitive can be a signal that your child might benefit from further conversations with a professional.
Sometimes children go through phases, and it can be a confusing time for the parents and the child; other times, there is something deeper that might benefit from an expert’s opinion.
Maybe your child responds to high-fun activities and finds regular bookwork boring – you can help them even further with these tips: Bust Kids Boredom while Learning and Having Fun.
What do you think?